MAGA Ransomware: How to Remove It and Prevent Future Infections

MAGA ransomware is a dangerous and persistent malware strain that belongs to the Dharma family of ransomware. It encrypts the victim’s files, appends a unique identifier to the filenames, and demands a ransom in exchange for decryption keys. This ransomware not only causes severe data loss but also poses significant security risks by disabling firewalls, deleting backup copies, and spreading through vulnerable entry points like RDP services and malicious email attachments.

Once infected, users are confronted with a pop-up ransom note and a text file named “MAGA_info.txt,” which provides instructions on how to contact the attackers. The ransom note demands a payment, often in cryptocurrency, and warns against seeking third-party help. In this article, we will explore the actions and consequences of MAGA ransomware, provide a step-by-step guide on how to remove it, and offer preventive measures to avoid future infections.

MAGA Ransomware: Actions and Consequences

When MAGA ransomware strikes, it performs a series of destructive actions. Here’s a breakdown of what happens:

1. File Encryption: MAGA encrypts local and network files, rendering them inaccessible. It renames the encrypted files by appending a victim-specific ID, the attacker’s email address, and the ".MAGA" extension. For example, "1.jpg" becomes "1.jpg.id-9ECFA84E.[MAGA24@cyberfear.com].MAGA."
2. Ransom Note: The ransomware displays a ransom note via a pop-up message and creates a text file called "MAGA_info.txt" with further instructions. Victims are informed that their files have been encrypted and are given an email address (MAGA24@cyberfear.com) to contact the attackers. The email is accompanied by a unique ID for reference. The attackers claim that file recovery is possible, but only after paying the ransom. The note further advises victims not to involve third-party decryption services.
3. System Modification: MAGA disables system firewalls, deletes Volume Shadow Copies (backups), and copies itself to the %LOCALAPPDATA% folder to ensure persistence. The malware may also install additional malicious software.
4. Data Loss: Without a decryption tool, victims risk losing their data permanently, especially if they don't have backups. Paying the ransom is not guaranteed to restore the files, as cybercriminals may fail to provide the promised decryption key.

Detection Names and Similar Threats

MAGA ransomware is detected by several popular antivirus tools under different names. Some of the detection names include:

• Avast: Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom]
• Combo Cleaner: Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E
• ESET-NOD32: A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.Crysis.P
• Kaspersky: Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Crusis.to
• Microsoft: Ransom:Win32/Wadhrama!pz

Similar threats in the ransomware category include:

• ViT
• WeHaveSolution
• UwU

These threats share common characteristics with MAGA, such as file encryption, ransom demands, and the use of similar distribution methods.

How to Remove MAGA Ransomware

If your system is infected with MAGA ransomware, it is crucial to remove the malware immediately to minimize further damage. Follow this comprehensive guide to remove MAGA ransomware from your computer:

Step 1: Disconnect from the Network

To prevent the ransomware from spreading to other devices or network shares, disconnect your infected computer from the internet and local network.

Step 2: Use SpyHunter to Scan Your Computer

SpyHunter is an excellent tool for detecting and removing MAGA ransomware and other types of malware. Download SpyHunter from the official website and follow the installation instructions. After installing, launch SpyHunter and run a full system scan. The tool will detect and quarantine any malicious files, including MAGA ransomware.

Step 3: Remove the Infected Files

After the scan is complete, SpyHunter will provide you with a list of detected threats, including MAGA ransomware. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove these files. SpyHunter's automated removal process will delete the ransomware and its associated files from your system.

Step 4: Restore Your Files (If Possible)

If you have backups, restore your files from a clean backup source. Make sure to verify that the backup is free of malware before restoring it to avoid re-infection. If no backup is available, you can try using data recovery tools or contacting professional data recovery services, though recovery may be impossible without the decryption key.

Step 5: Prevent Future Infections

To avoid future infections, take the following steps:

• Install Reliable Antivirus Software: Always use trusted antivirus software like SpyHunter to scan your system regularly.
• Enable RDP Protection: Secure Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) services by using strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication (2FA).
• Avoid Malicious Emails: Be cautious with email attachments, especially from unknown senders. Do not open any suspicious attachments or click on links in phishing emails.
• Update Your Software: Keep your operating system and applications up-to-date to patch vulnerabilities that ransomware may exploit.
• Use Backup Solutions: Regularly back up your important files to an offline or cloud-based storage system that is not connected to your local network.

Conclusion

MAGA ransomware is a serious threat that can lead to significant data loss and system compromise. The best course of action is to remove it immediately using SpyHunter and take preventive steps to secure your system against future attacks. SpyHunter's comprehensive scanning and removal features make it an essential tool for protecting your data from ransomware like MAGA.

To effectively remove MAGA ransomware and keep your system secure, download SpyHunter today. Scan your system for free and remove any threats before they cause more damage.

Text in the Ransom Note (Pop-Up Window)

MAGA
YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
Don't worry, you can return all your files!
If you want to restore them, write to the mail: MAGA24@cyberfear.com YOUR ID -
If you have not answered by mail within 24 hours, write to us by another mail:MAGA24@tuta.io
ATTENTION
MAGA does not recommend contacting agent to help decode the data

Text in MAGA's Text File ("MAGA_info.txt")

You want to return?

write email MAGA24@cyberfear.com or MAGA24@tuta.io